Winter has meant injured mail carriersThe (Bloomington) PantagraphAmong Bloomington-Normal area letter carriers alone, at least six have been injured in falls this winter in which injuries were severe enough to require medical treatment and time off work, said Bloomington Postmaster Mark Ford. Among injuries were a severe wrist fracture, torn knee ligaments, a torn rotator cuff and concussions, he said.

Snow moving out, cold moving inFrom Daily Herald news servicesAn overnight snowstorm has left between 1-inch and 6-inches on the ground, but the snowstorm is slowly moving out of the area while cold weather moves in. Officials said the heavy, wet snow, is forcing slow commute times throughout the area, and people are urged to slow down to avoid potential accidents.

Blackberry Township names new supervisorBy Susan SarkauskasThe BlackberryTownship board appointed Fred Dornback as its new supervisor. Dornback, the township's cemetery superintendent, ran unsuccessfully for the post as an independent last year.

Proposed Geneva budget up 14 percentBy Susan SarkauskasThe proposed Geneva city budget calls for an increase in spending over this year's estimated spending, with expected increases in salaries, infrastructure work and the cost of purchasing electricity. But part of the bump is also due to a major project, the construction of a third level on the commuter parking deck, having been postponed from last year to this year.

Probation for former Aurora cop who stole $9,000 from unionBy Harry HitzemanA former Aurora police officer pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor even though he stole more than $9,000 from a police union. Joseph D. Accardi, 36, of Naperville, was sentenced to probation, 200 hours of community service, and resigned from his job after stealing from the Association of Professional Police Officers between May 2010 and May 2013. He also repaid the money.

Alcohol not a factor in fatal Arlington Heights crashBy Melissa SilverbergArlington Heights police are still investigating what caused a Palatine man to speed in the wrong lanes of traffic on Rand Road, causing a five-vehicle accident Monday afternoon that ended his life and injured three others. Police say the preliminary investigation indicates alcohol was not a factor in the crash.

Illinois insurance signups creeping toward goalsAssociated PressNearly 900 Illinois residents per day signed up for coverage on the health insurance marketplace last month, but the state must quicken that pace to reach a goal set by President Barack Obama's administration. Federal figures released Tuesday show 113,733 Illinois residents signed up for coverage during the first five months of the nation's new marketplace system.

Gurnee library executive director under fireBy Bob SusnjaraWarren-Newport Library District board President Socrates Rivers outlined what he said have been several problems with the financial performance by the retiring executive director at a packed meeting Tuesday night. Stephen Bero, who's led the library for the past nine years, was placed in the spotlight by Rivers soon after several in the overflow crown of more than 100 spectators voiced support...

Take website down, Goel tells SuperPACBy Eric PetersonRepublican congressional hopeful Manju Goel released a statement Tuesday evening that she is now asking an Indian-American SuperPAC to take down a misleading website critical of her Republican opponent Larry Kaifesh, as it “too closely resembles his official campaign.”

Video gambling recommended at Hoffman golf courseBy Eric PetersonThe Hoffman Estates Park District’s Recreation Committee Tuesday voted 6-1 to recommend a one-year test of video gambling in the clubhouse bar of the Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club. The recommendation came after an additional month of soliciting comment via e-mail from members of the park district-owned country club.

Brady hits Dillard over union backingBy Mike RiopellState Sen. Bill Brady criticized state Sen. Kirk Dillard's union backing in the governor's race Tuesday, saying Dillard should “come clean about what kind of deal he cut” with Illinois' largest state workers union. Dillard, a Hinsdale Republican, denied making any promises to union supporters, who added $400,000 to his campaign coffers Tuesday.

Property owners sue DuPage to build gas station near Glen EllynBy Robert SanchezA federal lawsuit alleges DuPage County committed an “arbitrary, capricious and unreasonable” act by refusing to let a gasoline station, convenience store and car wash be built near Glen Ellyn. The suit, filed Monday by Nebraska-based Buck's Inc. and the land owners, is asking the court to declare the project can proceed at the northeast corner of Butterfield Road and Route 53.

Truax blasts Oberweis over pre-primary Florida tripBy Mike RiopellState Sen. Jim Oberweis is catching heat from his U.S. Senate opponent Doug Truax for being in Florida a week before Tuesday's primary election. Oberweis says he's in Florida to visit his wife and raise campaign money.

Illinois GOP hopefuls address school ‘clout’ issueAssociated PressThree lawmakers seeking the Republican nomination for governor still are facing questions about their roles in a 5-year-old admissions scandal at the University of Illinois. state Sens. Bill Brady and Kirk Dillard and Treasurer Dan Rutherford all were asked if they had “taken advantage of” the Category I list — often referred to as “the clout list” —...

Primary for shot at Durbin poses dilemma for GOPAssociated PressOne of the biggest dilemmas Illinois Republicans face in next week’s primary is choosing a candidate for a daunting effort to unseat Dick Durbin, the U.S. Senate’s second most powerful Democrat. Does a West Point graduate and business owner with little name recognition give them their best shot at beating the three-term senator? Or is it a dairy magnate and state senator who has run...

Police: Elgin fugitive arrested in SpringfieldBy Elena FerrarinAn Elgin man who had been the subject of an extensive manhunt after federal narcotics charges were filed against him and four others was arrested Tuesday in Springfield, according to Elgin Police Cmdr. Dan O’Shea. Lee Dennis Mabry, 49, of Elgin, was charged with distributing cocaine after a joint investigation by an FBI-led task force and the Elgin Police Department, the Chicago FBI office...

2 booked on drug charges in DuPage CountyBy Steve ZaluskyWheaton police announced the arrests of two men for felony delivery of a controlled substance.The Feb. 20 arrest of Roger A. Johnson, 24, of Warrenville and Larissa S. Pyykkonen, 20, of Wheaton, was made following an extensive undercover investigation by Wheaton police with assistance from Warrenville police

Police still probing Villa Park teen’s hit-and-run deathBy Jessica CilellaState police are continuing to search for a hit-and-run driver who struck and killed a Villa Park teen Saturday near Joslin, Ill. Authorities say 17-year-old Emilio A. Perez, a junior at Willowbrook High School, was struck by a vehicle between 7:15 and 7:30 p.m. while walking along I-88 near mile marker 6.

CIA accused: Senator sees torture probe meddlingAssociated PressIn an extraordinary public accusation, the head of the Senate Intelligence Committee declared on Tuesday that the CIA interfered with and then tried to intimidate a congressional investigation into the agency’s possible use of torture in terror probes during the Bush administration. The CIA clandestinely removed documents and searched a computer network set up for lawmakers, said Sen.

Elgin-O’Hare details emergingBy Marni PykeA tolling system that avoids charging fees at entrances and exits were among the new details of the Elgin-O’Hare Expressway extension and western bypass laid out at an open house Tuesday. Initial plans calls for an all-electronic road that avoids tolls at entry or exit ramps.

Malaysian military says missing jet changed courseAssociated Press The missing Boeing 777 jetliner changed course over the sea, crossed Malaysia and reached the Strait of Malacca — hundreds of miles from its last position recorded by civilian authorities, Malaysian military officials said Tuesday, citing military radar data. The development added confusion and mystery into one of most puzzling aviation incidents of recent time, and it has raised questions...

Kane Co. Board approves $1.9 million shooting rangeBy James FullerKane County Sheriff's employees will get a new shooting range despite it costing twice as much as initially projected. The nearly $2 million range will open in October. Sheriff Pat Perez received support from the majority of the board despite some gripes about the price increase and the lack of an overall capital projects plan.

Judge’s decision is latest twist in Army sex caseAssociated PressThe trial of an Army general accused of sexual assault moved into uncharted legal territory Tuesday when the judge dismissed the jury to allow the defense time to hammer out a new plea deal with the military. While the highly unusual decision gives Brig. Gen. Jeffrey A. Sinclair a second chance to negotiate the dismissal of the most serious charges, he appears certain to face an inglorious end...

Metra talks funding, projects with DuPage officialsBy Robert SanchezBefore a strategy can be developed to improve how mass transit is funded, Metra Chairman Martin Oberman says the six counties in the region must work in a unified way. “If we are going to have a fiscal strategy that is workable, we need to have as much support politically from our region as possible,” Oberman said after meeting Tuesday with members of the DuPage County’s...

McHenry man charged with DUI after 2 hit-and-run crashesBy Lee FilasA McHenry man faces several charges after he fled the scene of a pair of crashes on Route 120 in Lakemoor, and stopped only after a third crash in unincorporated McHenry County disabled his vehicle, police said Tuesday.

Authorities mum about Sleepy Hollow fatal police shootingBy Madhu KrishnamurthyTwo days after two Sleepy Hollow police officers shot and killed a man who lunged at them with a knife, authorities remain mum about the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Illinois State Police is investigating the matter — customary in any officer-involved shooting. Authorities are holding off on releasing the name of the deceased man until next of kin has been notified, state police...

South Elgin looking at new land, special needs playgroundBy Elena FerrarinBuying land near a proposed extension of Bowes Road to Route 31 and building an all-inclusive playground are among the projects budgeted next fiscal year in South Elgin. The village board took a look at the proposed budget on Monday night.

Court: Unplayed Blagojevich tapes to stay sealedAssociated PressAn appellate court in Chicago ruled Tuesday that transcripts of FBI wiretaps not played at Rod Blagojevich’s corruption trials would be part of the appellate record but would remain sealed, at least for now. The decisions by the U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals came as it continued to mull its decision on the imprisoned former Illinois governor’s 100-page appeal, which was filed...

Accusations dominate 17th Cook County Board GOP primaryBy Melissa SilverbergThe Northwest suburbs are miles away from the Southwest suburbs, but those who live in the 17th Cook County Board district are finding Orland Park-area politics all over their Republican primary. The home bases of both Republican candidates, Commissioner Liz Doody Gorman of Orland Park and Dr. Barbara Bellar of Burr Ridge, are far from Des Plaines, Rosemont and Elk Grove Village, at the opposite...

Fox Valley police reportsDavid L. Schaefer Jr., 42, of Elgin, was charged with retail theft Sunday after he took less than $300 worth of merchandise from Butera Market, 1 Clock Tower Plaza, according to court documents. His bail was set at $40,000 and his next court date is March 19.

Schneider pushes for unemployment benefits voteBy Mike RiopellU.S. Rep. Brad Schneider Wednesday will push for a House vote on extending unemployment insurance benefits. The move would require signatures from a majority of members of Congress, so the Deerfield Democrat would need at least some Republican support in GOP-controlled Congress.

Images of the Heartland:Daily Herald reportArtists 18 and older from Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana are sought for a contest sponsored by the Lake County Heritage Farm Foundation, in cooperation with the Lake County Discovery Museum.

U.S. Men’s Volleyball at Sears Centre June 20-21Daily Herald reportThe Chicago area will give fans of men’s volleyball four opportunities to see the U.S. National Team in action this summer as it hosts two weekends of FIVB World League action. The U.S. Men’s Volleyball Team will two matches against Bulgaria on June 20 and 21 at the Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates, one week after two matches against Serbia on June 13 and 14 at the University...

Former Naperville K-9 officer patrolling ‘without my partner’By Marie WilsonNaperville police on Tuesday honored one of their own for his service with a K-9 named Sabek, the police dog involved in the largest methamphetamine bust in DuPage County, who recently retired from the force and died. “It’s a big change,” Sherwin said about the loss of Sabek, his K-9 partner. “You have somebody with you for nine years every day and then all of the...

Schaumburg High School choir festival ThursdaySubmitted by District 211The Schaumburg High School Choir is presenting a choir festival at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 13, in the Weimer Auditorium for Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211 and Schaumburg Township Elementary District 54.

Missing Hanover Park man foundDaily Herald reportA missing 82-year-old Hanover Park man has been found, authorities said Tuesday. Clotilde Espada was last seen near Irving Park and Wise roads Tuesday morning. He is in good health and has been reunited with his family, according to Hanover Park police.

Prospect Heights considers adding French MarketBy Deborah DonovanProspect Heights leaders are in talks to bring a weekly French Market to the city later this year. Officials said the market is a more eclectic version of a traditional farmers market, featuring not just produce but items ranging from pottery to French linens. Mayor Nick Helmer sees the market as an amenity for residents. “I have been to the Wheaton market three times because I was...

Lake County approves Peterson widening, other projectsBy Mick ZawislakContracts approved Tuesday by the Lake County Board will ensure there is plenty of road work under way when the weather improves. Topping the list is the $10.8 million widening of Peterson Road, which is considered an economic development corridor.

Palatine honors emergency management leader, volunteersBy Doug T. GrahamOutgoing Palatine Emergency Management Agency coordinator Tom Smith received a standing ovation Monday as he and his agency’s volunteers were commended for their work by the Palatine village council. A large gathering of Palatine residents clad in orange safety vests filled the council room as Mayor Jim Schwantz led the ceremony and heaped praise on the all-volunteer group.

Indian Prairie administrator to head East Aurora schoolsDaily Herald report A longtime administrator in Indian Prairie Unit District 204, Mike Popp, has been named superintendent of East Aurora School District 131. Popp, 48, is expected to begin work April 1 in East Aurora. The District 131 school board voted unanimously Monday to hire him after another candidate withdrew to stay in his home district.

St. Patrick’s Day parade steps off at 2 p.m. SaturdayBy James FullerSt. Charles hosts its annual St. Patrick's Day parade at 2 p.m. Saturday downtown. John Wredling is the grand marshal. The World War II veteran equipped B-17 bombers for their missions. But locally, he's best known as the former superintendent of St. Charles Unit District 303.

Arlington Hts. businesses pass on tradition of serviceBy Margery FrisbieWhen Wayne's Pizza co-owner Tony Gillig told the Daily Herald reporter recently that most of all, he enjoys “working with new people and teaching them the things that got us to where we are today,” it reminded Margery Frisbie of a familiar theme she encountered among Arlington Heightgs busiiness owners she interviewed.

Friend: ‘Mad’ Pistorius shot gun out car sunroofAssociated Press Oscar Pistorius’ friend testified Tuesday that the Olympian twice fired guns in public in the six months before he killed his girlfriend, once without warning through the sunroof of a moving car following an angry altercation with a policeman who had handled Pistorius’ pistol. Darren Fresco said he asked Pistorius immediately after the sunroof shooting if he was “mad”...

Crimea’s parliament pushes for independenceAssociated PressCrimea’s Parliament said Tuesday that if the public votes to become part of Russia, the peninsula will declare itself independent and propose becoming a Russian state. That could offer a way of de-escalating the standoff between Russia and the West. The vote in Crimea’s Parliament about Sunday’s referendum could give Moscow the option of saying there is no need for Crimea to...

Police: Aurora man set fires over video game disputeBy Harry HitzemanA 28-year-old Aurora man is accused of starting several small fires Saturday after an apparent fight with his friend over a video game, police said. Michael O. Davis faces arson charges and was being held on $150,000 bail, according to police and court records. Jason McGlaun, 49, of Aurora, is charged with misdemeanor trespassing.

Aurora man faces 6 felony DUI counts after head-on crash injures fiveDaily Herald report A 39-year-old Aurora man faces six felony counts of DUI and numerous other charges in connection with two crashes he triggered Monday night, authorities said Tuesday. Four people, including three children, were seriously injured in one of the crashes. The suspect, Roy R. Lightfoot of the 500 block of Hammond Avenue, was being held under police guard Tuesday at an Aurora hospital, police spokesman...

Lake Park voters weighing pool questions on March ballotBy Marie WilsonVoters in Lake Park High School District 108 will decide Tuesday whether the latest effort to build an indoor aquatic center at the Roselle school will be successful. Two referendum questions on the March 18 ballot ask if voters will support a proposal to borrow $8.5 million to build the pool and a tax rate increase to provide $390,000 a year to operate it. As Election Day nears, pool plans are...

Lake Zurich turns to Buffalo Grove for new police chiefBy Bob SusnjaraBuffalo Grove Deputy Police Chief Steve Husak will be recommended to take over as Lake Zurich's top cop. Lake Zurich Mayor Thomas Poynton will seek village board ratification for his selection of Husak on Monday, March 17. Provided Husak receives the necessary support, he would be sworn in at the village board's April 7 session, according to an announcement Monday.

Plan B in works if St. Charles' First Street plans flopBy James FullerSt. Charles officials are beginning to consider another option if current plans for First Street fall through. SMN Development representatives were a no-show for a progress report due one month before aldermen will decide if the development team will be given any future opportunities for updates. The purchase agreement SMN Development has with the city for a 52-foot parcel along First Street...

Democrats clock all-nighter with climate talkAssociated PressDemocratic senators clocked an all-nighter, working in shifts into Tuesday morning to warn of the devastation from climate change and the danger of inaction. Addressing a nearly empty chamber and visitor gallery, more than two dozen speakers agreed with each other about the need to act on climate change. Naysayers — Republicans — largely stayed away, arguing hours earlier that...

‘Burger King baby’ now seeks birth mom on FacebookAssociated PressIn 1986, a newborn wrapped in a red sweater was found abandoned in the bathroom of a fast-food restaurant. Nearly three decades later, the baby is all grown up and looking for her biological mother, and tens of thousands of people are trying to help. Katheryn Deprill began her quest on March 2 by posting a photo on her Facebook page. A week later, it’s been shared nearly 27,000 times by...

Terror trial to hear more from shoe-bomb witnessAssociated PressA British man who was supposed to take down an airplane with a shoe bomb in 2001 until he backed out of the conspiracy is set to resume testimony in the trial of Osama bin Laden’s son-in-law with a description of what happened in the weeks after the terrorist attacks.

Former Christie aides to judge: Quash subpoenasAssociated PressLawyers for two key figures in a political payback scandal ensnaring Gov. Chris Christie’s administration will go in court to try to persuade a judge not to force them to turn over text messages and other private communications to New Jersey legislators investigating the matter. Fired Christie staffer Bridget Kelly and two-time campaign manager Bill Stepien say complying with the subpoenas...

Illinois attorney general collects nearly $1 billionAssociated PressIllinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan has announced her office collected nearly $1 billion in revenue last year. Officials say that's a similar amount to yearly revenues brought in since Madigan took office.

Obama hams it up for health care on Funny or DieAssociated PressPresident Barack Obama is hamming it up online to promote his health care plan. Obama joked Tuesday with comedian Zach Galifianakis, including poking fun at the poorly reviewed “Hangover Part III” during an interview on the website Funny or Die. Galifianakis typically poses awkward questions to celebrity guests appearing on “Between Two Ferns,” and Obama was no...

States wrestle with developing, restricting dronesAssociated PressLaw enforcement, government agencies and others are itching to use drones for everything from finding lost hikers to tracking shifting wildfires. But privacy watchdogs are urging state legislatures to step in and head off any potential privacy violations. That tension is on display as more than 35 states consider drone legislation this year, according to the National Conference of State...

Japan marks 3rd anniversary of tsunami disastersAssociated PressPrime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged to boost rebuilding efforts as the country marked the third anniversary Tuesday of a devastating earthquake and tsunami that left nearly 19,000 people dead, destroyed coastal communities and triggered a nuclear crisis. Japan has struggled to rebuild towns and villages and to clean up radiation from the meltdowns at the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant.

Visclosky keeps up pitch for South Shore fundingAssociated PressU.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky on Monday night issued a powerful call for local communities to ante up for the South Shore Line extension in the next three weeks so Northwest Indiana can take its rightful place in the global economy.

State superintendent: education cuts ‘devastating’Associated PressThe head of the Illinois State Board of Education says proposed cuts in education funding could be “devastating” to school districts. State superintendent Christopher Koch’s comments were reported by the Springfield bureau of Lee Enterprises newspapers.

Authorities probe man’s drowning in Du Quoin lakeAuthorities say a man drowned and a woman was hospitalized after their boat capsized on a lake in the southern Illinois city of Du Quoin. Investigators say the accident happened shortly before 1:30 p.m. Monday on Du Quoin City Lake in Perry County.

Arlington Hts. trustees question but approve Metropolis fundingBy Melissa SilverbergAfter more than two hours of discussion and difficult questions, the Arlington Heights board approved the 2014-15 budget for Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, with nearly $250,000 in financial support from the village. “You will get my support this year, but if in future years you cannot continue to control spending and we don't see increased revenues, it will be questionable,” John...

Lakemoor shifts misdemeanor cases to Lake CountyBy Mick ZawislakAfter 62 years, Lakemoor will be switching prosecution of its misdemeanor cases from McHenry to Lake County circuit court. A planned municipal complex on Route 120 in Lake County precipitated the move.

Mundelein closing in on new logoBy Russell LissauAfter a presentation by marketing consultants Monday night, Mundelein trustees closed in on a possible new logo for the century-old town, one that could feature a multicolored star next to the village’s name.

Former Palatine hotel to become senior apartmentsBy Doug T. GrahamThe building that once housed Hotel Bollero in Palatine will be turned into a senior living center with rental units for those 55 and older. David Friedman, the president of F&F Realty, said that the new facility would be for independent seniors and would have 118 units available for rent. The facility would provide residents, who must be older than 55 to apply for a unit, two meals a day.

Sports

Best effort not quite enough for St. ViatorBy Dick QuaglianoFor the second year in a row, Stevenson ended St. Viator's playoff hopes in the boys basketball state series. But the Lions made sure that this year they went down scratching and clawing. “They never stopped fighting,” said St. Viator coach Mike Howland, whose team fought back from a 22-point deficit in the third quarter to get as close as 7 points with a minute to play before succumbing 84-73 Tuesday at the Lake Zurich sectional.

Rockford Auburn too much for HuntleyBy John RadtkeThe Rockford Auburn boys basketball team has put together another championship season with pressure defense and a deft 3-point shooting touch. Both were on display Tuesday night, much to Huntley's displeasure.The Knights pressured Huntley into 22 turnovers and hit 11 of 23 from 3-point range in beating the Red Raiders 61-49 in the semifinals of the Class 4A Elgin sectional at Chesbrough Field House.

Loss doesn't diminsh what Huntley has accomplishedBy Jerry FitzpatrickHuntley knocked on that sectional door again Tuesday night. Unfortunately, Rockford Auburn answered. Again.For the third time in four seasons, the Red Raiders were ousted by the Knights in sectional play, this time 61-49 in a Class 4A semifinal at Elgin's venerable Chesbrough Field House.

Wood roughed up after Lake’s error; Cubs fall 13-0Associated PressNolan Arenado and Kyle Parker each hit home runs and Jorge De La Rosa pitched three innings of two-hit ball Tuesday, leading the Colorado Rockies to a 13-0 win over the Cubs in front of a Cactus League-record 14,840 fans.

Benet marches onBy Kevin SchmitSimply put, it was textbook Benet boys basketball. The Redwings continued their workmanlike playoff run with Tuesday’s 61-50 victory over Hinsdale Central in the Class 4A East Aurora sectional semifinals.

DePaul tops St. John’s for Big East women’s titleAssociated PressBrittany Hrynko scored 15 points and Megan Rogowski added 14 on Tuesday and No. 23 DePaul beat St. John’s 65-57 to capture its first Big East women’s tournament championship.Megan Podkowa had 12 points and Jasmine Penny added 11 as the host Blue Demons (27-6) won their seventh straight and earned the league’s automatic NCAA tournament berth.Aliyyah Handford scored 13 points and Briana Brown added 12 for the Red Storm (22-10), making their first Big East title game appearance since 1988.DePaul never trailed in the second half after taking a 30-29 lead just before halftime.It was the first women’s championship game for the realigned Big East since powerhouses Connecticut and Notre Dame departed last year for the American Athletic and Atlantic Coast conferences, respectively.The championship tournament was also held for the first time in Chicago after Connecticut hosted the past 10 years.DePaul also finished atop the regular season standings for the first time since joining in 2005-06.DePaul took an early 15-9 lead, but Handford scored five points in a 9-2 run that gave the Red Storm their first edge at 18-17 on a layup with 8:52 remaining.Hrynko answered with a 3-pointer for a 20-18 Blue Demons lead. Three players later combined on seven unanswered points to put St. John’s up 25-22 with 4:11 remaining.The lead changed hand twice more before DePaul took a 30-29 advantage into the half after Rogowski’s layup with 37 seconds left.DePaul led by seven points through the mid stages of the second half, including a 49-42 edge at the 9:57 mark on Rogowski’s layup off an inbound pass.The Red Storm closed the gap to four at 57-53 on Brown’s 3-pointer with 2:24 left. Rogowski followed with two free throws and Penny banked in a shot with 1:54 left for a 60-53 lead.Brown recovered a loose ball for a layup to cut the DePaul lead to 60-55 with 45 seconds to play, but Chanise Jenkins hit a pair of free throws two seconds later to restore a seven-point lead.Connecticut captured seven Big East tournament titles from 2005-12, plus last year’s NCAA championship. Notre Dame won the 2013 league tourney on the way to its third straight Final Four appearance.Both remained unbeaten after winning conference titles this week and are ranked No. 1 and No. 2 nationally.“They’re off the charts,” DePaul coach Doug Bruno said. “I never felt bad about what we achieved in the previous Big East. It was no disgrace to get to the semifinals in that league. If you could go to the final four of the old Big East, you could go to the Final Four of the NCAA tournament.”Whether the new Big East produces a Final Four entry won’t be known until next month. But the current 10-team league — eight from the previous league plus Butler and Creighton — now features more balance and competitive play.Regular-season champion DePaul was 15-3 in conference play while runner-up St. John’s went 13-5.In Monday’s semifinals, St. John’s had to rally in the second half to force the first overtime then a second before beating Creighton. DePaul held off a late Marquette comeback and didn’t secure its win until hitting six free throws in the final minute.

A real crowd-pleaser for StevensonBy Patricia Babcock McGrawOfficials at Lake Zurich weren't counting fans one-by-one as they funneled seemingly non-stop into their school Wednesday night. It would have been too easy to lose track. Instead, they simply estimated that a standing-room-only crowd of 2,700 sandwiched into every possible open space to watch Stevenson take on St. Viator in a heated Class 4A sectional semifinal. Meanwhile, counting points one-by-one for Stevenson would have been pointless, too. Counting by twos often didn't work either. The Patriots were often operating in multiples of three in taking down St. Viator, 84-73.

Rockford Lutheran overtakes Kaneland in 2nd halfBy Dave OberhelmanKaneland senior forward Tyler Carlson reigned in the first half Tuesday, hitting Rockford Lutheran with 29 points. Then came a second-half deluge that knocked the Knights out of the playoffs. Countering an 11-point halftime deficit Rockford Lutheran turned up the defense, leading to a 50-point second half and a 76-61 Crusaders victory in this Class 3A Hampshire sectional semifinal.

Ready or not? Bulls not against SpursBy Mike McGrawTwo days after an emotional overtime victory over Miami, the Bulls were caught flat-footed against San Antonio. The Spurs sprinted to a 38-14 lead after one quarter and dominated Tuesday's game at the United Center. A late run by the Bulls made the final score a more respectable 104-96.

Bulls can’t complete comeback against SpursAssociated PressManu Ginobili scored 22 points and Tony Parker had 20 as the league-leading San Antonio Spurs beat the Bulls 104-96 on Tuesday night. Kawhi Leonard added 16 for San Antonio, which won its seventh straight and 10th in its last 11. The Bulls trailed 90-66 entering the fourth, but pulled to within eight late against San Antonio's reserves.

Spurs’ Popovich ‘stunned’ by hand dealt to ThibsBy Mike McGrawSan Antonio had four players out with injuries when they lost to the Bulls on Jan. 29. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich admitted before Tuesday’s rematch there is no comparison between his lineup and what Tom Thibodeau has faced.

Bears land DE Houston with five-year dealBy Bob LeGereFor the second straight year the Bears struck quickly in free agency, reaching a five-year, $35 million deal with ex-Raiders defensive end Lamarr Houston that leaked just minutes after Tuesday’s 3 p.m. start of free agency. Houston, who had a career-high 6 sacks last season, will reportedly be paid $21 million over the first three years of the deal with $15 million guaranteed.The Bears were active on Tuesday, agreeing to terms with a safety (Ryan Mundy), a linebacker (D.J. Williams) and a special teams player (Jordan Senn).

Bears focus on D-line a nice changeBy Barry RoznerWhen the Bears eschewed defense last spring in favor of building an offense, they had to figure it would take years, not days, to put in place a group of players they could rely on to function in a 21st century offense. The fact that it happened so quickly only means that they can now get started on rebuilding the defense.

Hawks hope to make their points in stretch driveBy Bruce MilesThe Blackhawks travel to Denver to take on the Colorado Avalanche in a possible first-round playoff matchup Wednesday night. Points are precious down the stretch as teams battle for position. Antti Raanta starts in goal for the Hawks.

Abreu has 3 hits, Beckham homers to pace White SoxAssociated PressJohn Danks pitched four-hit ball for five innings and Jose Abreu went 3 for 3 with two RBIs, leading the White Sox to a 7-6 win over the Texas Rangers on Tuesday. Danks, making his second start of the spring, struck out one and walked three as he continued his buildup to the regular season. Gordon Beckham hit a solo home run in support of Danks.

Eight-time Pro Bowler Peppers jettisonedBy Bob LeGereTo almost no one’s surprise the Bears cut ties with eight-time Pro Bowl defensive end Julius Peppers on Tuesday, freeing up nearly $10 million under this year’s $133 million salary cap. Peppers would have counted $18.2 million against this year’s salary cap with a base of $13.9 million. Minus the $8.4 million the prorated portion of his signing bonus counts against the cap, the net difference for the Bears is $9.8 million.

Dallas Seavey wins his second Iditarod dog raceAssociated PressDallas Seavey ran a blistering pace to rally from third place and win his second Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race early Tuesday in a record-breaking finish, after a sudden storm blew the front-runner out of the competition and kept another musher minutes away from her first win.

Overpaid Boozer adds a lot of value to the BullsBy Mike NorthCarlos Boozer might seem overpaid at $15 million a year, but Mike North still sees his presence as invaluable to the Chicago Bulls and is satisfied with what Boozer does bring to the table.

Business

W. Dundee eyeing development for eastern gatewayBy Lenore T. AdkinsWest Dundee is embarking on what one official dubbed a “needed injection of development” in the downtown that could bring two restaurants, an event venue, a store that sells packaged goods from one of the eateries, and more to southeast corner of Main and First streets.

Europe wants its Parmesan back, seeks name changeAssociated PressWould Parmesan by any other name be as tasty atop your pasta? A ripening trade battle might put that to the test. As part of trade talks, the European Union wants to ban the use of European names like Parmesan, feta and Gruyere on cheese made in the United States.

U.S. stocks end slightly lower for a second dayAssociated PressWithout any big economic news or blowout company earnings to respond to, investors found little to get excited about Tuesday and sent the stock market lower for the second day in a row. A few companies grabbed headlines for posting poor quarterly results or consummating long-running merger talks Tuesday. But the broader market barely budged for much of the day, then closed slightly lower.

House committee investigating GM recallAssociated PressA congressional committee is investigating the way General Motors and a federal safety agency handled a deadly ignition switch problem in compact cars. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton of Michigan says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received a large number of complaints about the problem during the past decade. But GM didn’t recall the 1.6 million cars worldwide until last month.

Schaumburg Business Association cheers on Conant cheerladers, Ala CarteDaily Herald reportFor once it wasn’t the Conant High School cheerleading squad leading the chorus of applause Tuesday. The Schaumburg Business Association cheered on a pair of local success stories at its monthly breakfast meeting, including the coed Conant squad that won the state championship in last month’s IHSA competitive cheerleading finals.

U.S. wholesaler sales fall 1.9 percent in JanuaryAssociated PressU.S. wholesale businesses in January suffered their steepest sales drop in nearly five years, yet they continued to increase their stockpiles. This suggests that companies expect the economy to roar back after experiencing an abrupt winter slowdown.

U.S. employers posted more open jobs in JanuaryAssociated PressU.S. employers advertised slightly more jobs in January than in December, a sign that hiring should remain steady in coming months. The Labor Department says employers posted 3.9 million job openings, up 1.5 percent from December.

Arlington Market homes plan back on trackBy Melissa SilverbergA plan to build 54 single-family homes in Arlington Heights is back on track, almost eight years after it won village approval. Arlington Market, a development near the intersection of Dryden Place and Kensington Road, first was proposed as a multiuse development including condos, homes and retail space.

A new carp villain threatens the Great LakesAssociated PressPlant-gorging grass carp probably could survive in all of the Great Lakes, and if they become established, the fish that's native to Asia might significantly damage the environment, scientists said Monday. The fight to prevent Asian carp from reaching the inland seas has focused primarily on bighead and silver carp, which eat huge amounts of plankton, the foundation of aquatic food chains.

E-cigarettes: fresh air or smoke and mirrors?Associated PressOn the edge of the SoHo neighborhood downtown, The Henley Vaporium is an intimate hipster hangout with overstuffed chairs, exposed brick, friendly counter help — but no booze. Instead, the proprietors are peddling e-cigarettes, along with bottles of liquid nicotine ready to be plucked from behind a wooden bar and turned into flavorful vapor for a lung hit with a kick that is intended to simulate traditional smoking.

Global growth forecast to remain sluggishAssociated PressGlobal growth is likely to remain sluggish as a slowdown in the developing world undercuts gains in Europe and the United States, a leading international economic body warned Tuesday. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development said one-off factors like the harsh winter weather in North America and the U.S.

Flight cancelations take a toll on airline revenueAssociated PressAirlines are still tallying up the damage from this winter’s storms, but solid demand for travel means they are likely to weather the rocky start to 2014 in good shape. Reports from some of the airlines point to higher average prices, and executives say spring bookings look strong.

After Boeing bid, Rockford targets high-tech jobsAssociated PressAs the city of Rockford attempted to rebuild its long-struggling economy a few years ago, officials found promise in a humming aerospace sector that had sprung up where other manufacturing had faltered.

Suburban bourbon boom part of growing trendBy Bob SusnjaraSmall batches of gin, bourbon and other spirits are leading a business growth spurt in Illinois. Copper Fiddle Distillery's planned debut in Lake Zurich this week is the latest example of expansion in the small-scale production of hard liquor. “I think the first thing (with small distilleries), as with craft beer, it's an expansion of tastes, an expansion of your palate,” American Craft Distillers Association Executive Director Penn Jensen said.

Life & Entertainment

Ice, mold and a lazy contractor cause some major problemsBy Henri de MarneQ: I have a two-story home in the Pittsburgh area that was built in 1998. In 2012, we had a new roof installed due to a severe hailstorm. In December 2012, when I went into the attic to get my Christmas decorations, I noticed that the entire roof on one side was damp, black and covered with mold.

Don Williams continues solid second actBy Michael McCall, Associated PressDon Williams is on a roll, once again. After talk of retirement — he even embarked on a farewell tour in 2006 — the Country Music Hall of Fame member suddenly is busy again, releasing his second album in the last two years with “Reflections.” If anything, the new collection is an even better reminder of Williams’ special gifts than 2012’s comeback album, “And So It Goes.”

ScHoolboy Q spins dark tale on ‘Oxymoron’By Chris TalbottScHoolboy Q’s major label debut plays out like an unsettling 21st-century film noir. “Oxymoron” is all vice and poor decisions, filled with classic noir elements like unredeemable characters in desperate circumstances, an anti-hero whose compass never quite finds true north and a pervasive sense of menace. Lots and lots of menace. It’s a harrowing vision that plays out in a bleak dystopian Los Angeles.

Needy boyfriend needs a few boundariesBy Carolyn HaxNeedy high school school boyfriend wants to spend every minute with her, but she has other priorities besides him. Carolyn Hax says stand up for yourself and set some boundaries.

South By Southwest overstuffed with music goodiesBy Chris Talbott, Associated PressSouth By Southwest and the surrounding unaffiliated hoopla have slipped into hyperdrive as the music portion of the annual conference and festival opens this week. Kanye West and Jay Z have announced they’re headed to Austin, Texas, the cherry on top of a gloriously all-over-the-place gathering that also will feature Lady Gaga as a keynote speaker, Lil Wayne as an interview subject and 2,000 other acts vying for attention in the midst of the frenzy.

‘Divergent’ soundtrack is unevenBy Cristina Jaleru, Associated PressThe latest dystopian young adult big-screen adaptation, “Divergent,” has high expectations for the box office, though its soundtrack offers an uneven bag of tracks. The film, highlighted by teenage angst overwrought by societal structure, could translate into a group of edgy, resonating songs, but the reality is that few rise up to the challenge.

Best bets: Sophia and Jake romp at the Rosemont TheatreBy Scott C. MorganIf your kids love animated cable shows like “Sophia the First” and “Jake and the Neverland Pirates,” then see the characters onstage in “Disney Junior Live on Tour! Pirate and Princess Adventure” this weekend at the Rosemont Theatre. Casting Crowns teams up with Laura Story and the band For King and Country for an evening of contemporary Christian music at the Sears Centre Arena Friday.

Keith Richards picture book out this fallAssociated PressKeith Richards is writing a children’s book. He really is. The Rolling Stone who came to define the adults-only lifestyle of rock has a deal with Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for a picture story called “Gus & Me: The Story of My Granddad and My First Guitar.”

Fuel your day with produce-packed juices and smoothiesBy Deborah PankeyCarrie Bush has celebrated plenty of St. Patrick's Days with green beer, but when the holiday rolls around this year she'll start the day with a green beverage of a different sort in her glass. Bush, 39, a mother of four kids ages 7 to 13, will start her day with a green smoothie.

Raunchy new 'South Park' game is sweetBy Lou Kesten, Associated PressRemember when “South Park” debuted on Comedy Central in 1997? Remember how shocking the cursing, toilet humor and black comedy seemed? Take that level of shock and multiply it by, oh, 20 and you'll have some idea of what you should expect from “South Park: The Stick of Truth,” the new video game written by series creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Like its cable TV counterpart, “The Stick of Truth” gleefully tackles issues like gun control, racism, sexism and pedophilia. If you're not a “South Park” fan, by all means avoid it. Even if you're a fan, there are moments that will make you say “ick” — even as you're laughing at the game's audacity.

Ted Turner recovering from appendicitis surgeryAssociated PressMedia mogul Ted Turner says he’s bouncing back from surgery and is looking forward to getting back to business as usual. In a statement released Monday, Turner thanked well-wishers for support while he was hospitalized in Argentina late last week for appendicitis.

Patio furniture goes bolder, brighterBy Kim Cook, Associated PressEarthy hues that blend into the landscape tend to dominate the outdoor furniture market. Understated woods, metals and cushions are easy-to-incorporate, neutral elements. But outdoor spaces offer the chance to be more adventurous than we are inclined to be indoors. Are bolder balconies and peppier patios on your redecorating radar?

Cook of the Week: Cary dad rediscovers the joy of cookingBy Sally EyreCharles Kraft, of Cary, admits he is something of a hybrid. “I'm half Italian and half German; it depends of what mood you catch me in as to how I behave … I can be a task master and the life of the party!” he laughs. It is this unique combination that drives his style of cooking. “I've got the German engineering side that needs to be efficient, but also the Italian side that thinks of cooking as art and a way to care for people. Everything I do is an exercise in creativity; the two sides are finally coming together — both the creative side and the analytical side.”

Food editor gives juicer, blenders a whirlBy Deborah PankeyDo you really need special equipment for mixing up green smoothies and making veggie-based juices? Food Editor Deborah Pankey tested a few options and shares this report.

Rodriguez gives it to viewers straight with El ReyBy Frazier Moore, Associated PressTV could be rocked by another game changer. Say hello to Robert Rodriguez, a prolific, much-admired filmmaker, who has recently launched TV network El Rey. Here’s a channel spawned by a demonstrated, multifaceted auteur. The revolution, if that’s how it turns out, could be sparked by El Rey’s first scripted original, “From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series,” which premieres at 8 p.m. Tuesday.

How to turn a rosemary bush into a treeBy Lee Reich, Associated PressPicture a little rosemary tree at your kitchen window, standing there upright and green as if in defiance to the wintry scene beyond the panes. This little tree offers more than decoration and winter cheer. Pass your hand lightly over the leaves, close your eyes, and the scent will carry you to a sunbaked Mediterranean hillside, the plant's native habitat. Here's how to make one.

Gurnee native hits high note as international opera starBy Jamie Sotonoff and Dann GireGurnee native Amanda Majeski was rejected when when auditioned for a musical program at Carmel High Schoolin Mundelein. But now, the Northwestern University grad stars in the Lyric Opera of Chicago's production of Mozart's “La Clemenza di Tito” through March 23. ”It's all so bizarre,” she said. “I grew up watching the Bulls play, watching the Bears and stuff. My parents loved athletics.”

Go for the food: Portland food carts cross bordersBy Nigel Duara, Associated PressThe many accolades earned by chefs in Portland, Ore., are rooted in what the land offers. That’s especially true with the city’s bustling food cart scene, which has become an incubator for great restaurants. Whether inspired by Norwegian comfort food, Peace Corps missions to the Republic of Georgia, or Thai “chaos in a bowl,” the menus reinvigorate and challenge both customer and chef to think harder and dream bigger.

Liam Mulligan is on the case in ‘Providence Rag’By Jeff Ayers, Associated PressBruce DeSilva uses his journalistic background to elevate “Providence Rag,” the third entry in his award-winning series to feature reporter Liam Mulligan. The brutal murder of two women and their children over the course of several years rocks a community in Rhode Island in the early 1990s. Though his background is sports, Mulligan gets pulled in to assist with the coverage. After a second murder, he begins to suspect that a teenage boy is the killer. He convinces a cop to investigate and soon after, Kwame Diggs is behind bars.

Gene therapy seems safe, may help control HIVBy Marilynn Machione, Associated PressScientists have modified genes in the blood cells of HIV patients to help them resist the AIDS virus, and say the treatment seems safe and promising. The results give hope that this approach might one day free at least some people from needing medicines to keep HIV under control, a form of cure.

History’s repeating actsBy Richard CohenColumnist Richard Cohen: Pardon the cliché — I think we have come upon a teachable moment. I am referring to the crisis in Ukraine and not just what it teaches us about the future but also what it teaches us about the past. Vladimir Putin has turned us all into Neville Chamberlain. The umbrella, please.

Businesses need a fairer Illinois income taxBy Steven Purduski and Mike GarrityGuest columnists Mark Garrity and Steven Purduski: Illinois’ antiquated tax system also unfairly takes money out of the pockets of some of our best customers: lower- and middle-income families. Illinois’ small businesses would benefit greatly from lower tax rates for lower incomes and higher rates for higher incomes.

The consequences of a retreating AmericaBy Michael GersonColumnist Michael Gerson: With the facts on the ground now established in Crimea — several thousand facts in the form of Russian troops — the question becomes: Will sustained economic, political and military isolation of Russia work? Will it reverse Vladimir Putin’s adventurism and deter future aggression?

Near tragedy points to driving dangerA Schaumburg letter to the editor: The story in the Herald on March 1 about Kerry Kennedy brought back what happened to me four years ago. I was visiting my sister in Tinley Park, and just before I left to come home I mistakenly took a sleeping pill instead of a pill for high cholesterol but I figured it would not affect me before I got home.

Postal retirees don’t get free health benefitsA Mount Prospect letter to the editor: I enjoy reading the letters in the Daily Herald, and I can usually distinguish facts from rants of people who don’t have all the facts, but I had to respond to a Feb. 27 letter by Nick Herman. He said postal workers get great pensions and free health insurance.

Abortion proposal protects women, babiesA Palatine letter to the editor: Thank God for conscientious lawmakers like Illinois state Rep. Tom Morrison of Palatine, who is introducing legislation to make abortion clinics safer for pregnant women who feel they have no choice but to end the life beginning within them. He wants to be sure the doctor is available while the women and teenage girls are in recovery, in case of complications.

Illinois needs leaders who listenA letter to the editor: Recent times have proven to be very difficult for the average citizen to navigate. Extreme weather, tragically misguided financial situations, failing banks, schools and religious institutions disturb the daily routine and trouble the slumber of night.

Term limits needed for lawmakersA letter to the editor: I am not necessarily a supporter of Bruce Rauner as he seeks the Governor's position in Illinois for 2014. I do, however, endorse strongly his recommendation to limit terms in the Illinois legislature.

Find other way to finance poolA Roselle letter to the editor: I believe most residents in the area who provide tax dollars to Lake Park High School support a swimming pool. I have for many years. The concern I have is how to pay for the pool. I have voted no to increased taxes to pay for the pool each time a referendum is presented to the taxpayers.

Candidate is not phoning it inGlen Ellyn letter to the editor: State Rep. Sandra Pihos has served House District 48 well, and has given much to her community. She has sponsored many events for community members, including events and fairs for veterans and seniors, summer reading programs for children, neighborhood meetings and coffees, informational open houses, and more.

Need to change direction in a hurryA Naperville letter to the editor: I want to commend Alexander Lee for the great letter he wrote regarding the “Land of Opportunism.” It was extremely well written and outlined perfectly the general malaise that has become our country.

Candidate never voted RepublicanAn Elgin letter to the editor Allow me to get the record straight. Republican candidate, 8th Congressional District, Manju Goel and her special interest SuperPAC, Indian Americans for Freedom, have taken her campaign against Larry Kaeifesh straight into the gutter.

Candidate will probe state budgetA South Elgin letter to the editor: As a long time member of our community who cares about our future, I want my representative to support my values. Steve Andersson is that person. I know him to be honest, intelligent, thoughtful, persuasive and effective.

2 strong candidates in judges’ racesA Yorkville letter to the editor: I strongly support Judge James C. Hallock and Judge Marmarie J. Kostelny for their selection to their respective Circuit Court Judge positions. Both judges went through a rigorous vetting process when they became associate judges.